Who painted Cattle at the waterhole?

Cattle at the waterhole was painted by Michiel Carree in 1702.

Where can I see Cattle at the waterhole?

Cattle at the waterhole is held by National Museum in Warsaw.

Artwork

Cattle at the waterhole

Cattle at the waterhole is an oil painting by Michiel Carree. It dates from 1702 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

Michiel Carree, a Dutch painter active in the early 18th century, produced the oil-on-canvas work *Cattle at the waterhole* circa 1702. The picture is part of the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw and portrays a tranquil scene of livestock gathered around a watering place.

Subject & Meaning

The composition features a mixed herd of cows, goats and sheep drinking from a shallow pool. A stone wall, partially covered with vegetation, frames the group, while a cloudy, sunset‑tinted sky looms overhead, emphasizing the quiet, pastoral moment.

Technique & Style

Carree employs a realistic approach, rendering the animals’ fur and the rough texture of the wall with careful observation. The handling of light suggests the waning sun, and the muted palette reinforces the naturalistic atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Born in The Hague in 1657, Carree trained first with his brother Hendrik Carré and later under Nicolaas Berchem, absorbing influences from contemporaries such as Gabriel van der Leeuw. The painting entered the Warsaw National Museum’s holdings in the 20th century, where it remains on display.

Context

The work reflects the Dutch Golden Age tradition of countryside genre scenes, where everyday rural life was celebrated. Carree’s choice of a waterhole as focal point aligns with the period’s interest in depicting the interaction between humans, animals, and landscape.

Artist & collection

Artist

Michiel Carree

Michiel Carree or Carré (1657 – October 1727) was a Dutch Golden Age painter. Carree was born in The Hague. He received his first instructions from his elder brother Hendrik Carré, and afterwards became the scholar of…